‘Klay won’t be happy’ – Mavericks make controversial decision regarding Klay Thompson for the future with Cooper Flagg

The dawn of the Cooper Flagg era in Dallas comes with immense expectations and even greater strategic decisions. The Dallas Mavericks have a unique blend of rising stars and seasoned veterans, but maximizing Flagg’s potential may demand a controversial shakeup—one that could impact Klay Thompson, a four-time NBA champion who joined the Mavs to chase one more title.

While Thompson’s presence is meant to bolster the team’s championship pedigree, his role in the long-term picture may not be as straightforward. With Kyrie Irving recovering, Max Christie ascending, and Flagg developing as the face of the franchise, the Mavericks must decide if starting Thompson deep into the season still aligns with their evolving identity.

Why Klay Thompson Is the Logical Starting Piece—For Now

There’s no question that Klay Thompson’s elite shooting makes him a natural fit alongside Cooper Flagg. The 13-year veteran shot 39.1 percent from three last season, providing the spacing and scoring threat necessary to ease Flagg into NBA life. Flagg, while a physical and instinctual forward, struggled from deep in the Summer League, highlighting a need for shooters around him. Enter Thompson, one of the best perimeter shooters of his generation.

Starting the year, the Mavericks’ ideal lineup may include D’Angelo Russell, Klay Thompson, Cooper Flagg, Anthony Davis, and Dereck Lively II. That configuration balances scoring and size, giving Flagg room to operate and learn. It also respects Thompson’s veteran status and experience in big moments. Yet, the NBA season is a marathon, not a sprint—and things could shift dramatically once Kyrie Irving returns.

Kyrie’s Return Complicates Thompson’s Role

Kyrie Irving is expected to return in the second half of the season after recovering from an ACL injury. Once back, his offensive abilities will naturally slot him into the starting lineup. That could push Klay Thompson into a reduced role, especially if the team prioritizes backcourt defense, which has been a consistent weakness in recent years.

Thompson, once an elite perimeter defender, has seen a noticeable decline in lateral movement and agility. Enter Max Christie, a 22-year-old rising wing with growing two-way impact and a knack for playing disruptive defense. As Kyrie returns and offensive production is less of an issue, Christie’s defensive prowess becomes increasingly valuable.

Max Christie: The Quiet X-Factor of Dallas’ Future

Max Christie is no longer just a promising young player—he’s a viable threat to Thompson’s starting spot. In his first games with the Mavericks, Christie made an immediate impression, averaging 15+ points per game and hitting from beyond the arc at an efficient clip. His 23-point outing against Houston, where he shot 80 percent from three, displayed his offensive upside. More importantly, Christie consistently took on the toughest defensive assignments and thrived.

Christie’s growth is exactly what Dallas needs beside Flagg—a tough, unselfish defender who’s developing a reliable offensive game. While Flagg shoulders the franchise’s future, Christie could quietly become one of the most important pieces alongside him. If he maintains this trajectory, the Mavericks may have no choice but to shift their rotation, even if it means reducing Klay Thompson’s minutes.

Why Moving Thompson to the Bench Might Be Best

This isn’t about disrespecting Klay Thompson. It’s about reality. Thompson is heading into his 13th NBA season, and while he still brings value, he may not be the lockdown defender or 40-minute workhorse he once was. In short bursts, he can thrive—especially in catch-and-shoot opportunities. As a sixth man, Thompson could lead the second unit, exploit weaker defenders, and still play crunch-time minutes when needed.

This scenario would allow Dallas to maximize the strengths of all three players: Thompson’s shooting, Christie’s defense, and Flagg’s versatility. Having a Hall-of-Famer like Thompson off the bench could also benefit locker room dynamics, especially if he embraces the role the way Andre Iguodala did for the Warriors.

Of course, this move won’t come without friction. Thompson’s pride and veteran status may make the demotion hard to digest. That’s where head coach Jason Kidd’s leadership comes in. Kidd will have to navigate the delicate balance of preserving Thompson’s dignity while building the best version of this team for the long haul.

A Crossroads for Dallas—and for Thompson

This season could be a turning point not only for the Mavericks but also for Klay Thompson’s career. The writing is on the wall—Dallas is getting younger and more dynamic. Cooper Flagg, Max Christie, and Dereck Lively II represent the team’s future. Veterans like Anthony Davis, D’Angelo Russell, and Kyrie Irving bring experience and scoring. Thompson’s role could evolve into that of a stabilizer, rather than a focal point.

That doesn’t mean he won’t be critical. In fact, Klay Thompson could be the X-factor in high-stakes playoff games. His postseason experience, clutch gene, and floor-spacing ability could still turn the tide in critical moments. But expecting him to guard the league’s best guards for 82 games may no longer be realistic.

The Flagg Era Requires Difficult Decisions

For the Cooper Flagg era to flourish, the Mavericks must think long-term. Building chemistry between Flagg and Christie now could pay off for years to come. If Christie continues to rise and earns a consistent starting role, it not only benefits Flagg’s development but solidifies Dallas’ perimeter defense.

Still, moving a legend like Thompson to the bench could cause internal tension. Dallas must communicate clearly and stay focused on the big picture: winning championships while developing the future. That means giving players like Christie more opportunities, even if it comes at the expense of a veteran fan-favorite.

Final Thoughts

The Mavericks are in a rare position—blessed with both elite veteran talent and a promising young core. But to fully realize the potential of the Cooper Flagg era, tough calls must be made. Klay Thompson may not like it, but the best version of the Mavericks might be one where he leads from the bench.

With Kyrie Irving returning, Max Christie improving, and Flagg needing space to grow, Dallas must prioritize versatility and defense, even if it means reshaping their rotation mid-season. It’s a bold move—but sometimes, building a championship team means letting go of the past to embrace the future.